Illegal saxaul logging in nature reserve: criminal group uncovered in Kazakhstan

Tengrinews.kz – A criminal group engaged in the illegal logging and harvesting of saxaul has been dismantled in the Kyzylorda Region, Polisia.kz reports.

According to the agency, the illegal activity was carried out on the territory of a state nature reserve with the assistance of certain inspectors from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management. Investigators believe that these inspectors were systematically receiving unlawful monetary rewards and ensuring unhindered harvesting of trees under state protection.

It was established that the members of the scheme organized the cutting of saxaul with subsequent sale to neighboring regions. During operational activities, logging sites were identified and instances of timber sales were documented.

During searches, investigators seized firearms, ammunition, trucks, electric sawmills, radios, cash, and a significant volume of illegally harvested saxaul. The Interior Ministry noted that it takes decades for this species to recover in natural conditions.

An investigation is under way. The suspects have been placed in a temporary detention facility and face up to 12 years in prison. The amount of damage caused to the state is being determined.

The Interior Ministry emphasized that illegal logging of rare and endangered plant species is classified as a serious environmental crime and causes severe damage to the ecosystem.